China’s Innovent Biologics Scores First-in-Class Obesity Drug Approval with Mazdutide

NEW YORK, NY – November 20, 2025

A New Hope for China’s Obesity Epidemic

Innovent Biologics has secured a landmark approval in China for Xinermei (mazdutide), a dual glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) and glucagon receptor agonist, marking the first domestically developed drug to address the country's growing obesity epidemic. The approval, announced earlier this week, positions Innovent at the forefront of a rapidly evolving market and offers a potentially transformative treatment option for millions of Chinese adults struggling with obesity and related metabolic disorders.

China has experienced a dramatic increase in obesity rates over the past few decades, driven by economic growth, changing lifestyles, and dietary shifts. This surge has led to a corresponding rise in obesity-related diseases, including type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and certain cancers, placing a significant strain on the nation’s healthcare system. “The need for effective and innovative obesity treatments in China is immense,” notes one healthcare analyst. “This approval couldn’t come at a better time.”

Mazdutide: A Differentiated Approach

Mazdutide differentiates itself from existing GLP-1 receptor agonists like Novo Nordisk’s Wegovy and Ozempic through its dual mechanism of action. While GLP-1 agonists primarily work by suppressing appetite and improving glucose metabolism, mazdutide also stimulates the glucagon receptor, potentially leading to increased energy expenditure and improved lipid metabolism. “The addition of glucagon receptor agonism is a key differentiating factor,” explains a researcher familiar with the drug’s development. “It offers the potential for more comprehensive metabolic benefits, particularly regarding weight loss and hepatic fat reduction.”

Clinical trial data, including the Phase 3 GLORY-2 study, demonstrate a compelling efficacy profile for mazdutide. Participants receiving the 9mg dose achieved an average weight reduction of 18.55% compared to 3.02% in the placebo group. Importantly, a substantial 44.0% of participants achieved a weight loss of 20% or greater. Furthermore, exploratory analysis revealed a remarkable 71.9% reduction in liver fat content in participants without type 2 diabetes, a particularly relevant finding given the high prevalence of metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) in China.

Innovent’s Strategic Partnership with Eli Lilly

The journey of mazdutide to market has been bolstered by a strategic partnership between Innovent Biologics and Eli Lilly and Company. Initiated in 2019, the agreement granted Innovent exclusive rights to develop, manufacture, and commercialize mazdutide within Greater China. This collaboration allows Innovent to leverage Lilly’s expertise in drug development and manufacturing while establishing a strong foothold in the Chinese market. “The partnership with Lilly has been instrumental in accelerating the development and approval of mazdutide,” states one industry insider. “It’s a win-win situation for both companies.”

While Lilly retains global rights to the drug outside of China and is conducting its own clinical trials, the partnership allows for a focused commercialization strategy within the Chinese market. This approach is particularly important given the unique regulatory landscape and healthcare system in China. Innovent is now preparing to launch Xinermei across the country, focusing on key metropolitan areas and major hospitals.

Market Dynamics and Competition

The Chinese GLP-1 receptor agonist market is poised for significant growth, driven by the rising prevalence of obesity and diabetes. Analysts project the market to reach US$11.4 billion by 2033. Currently, Novo Nordisk dominates the market with Wegovy and Ozempic, but Innovent’s Xinermei is expected to capture a substantial share. The emergence of domestically developed alternatives like Xinermei is also expected to drive down prices and increase access to obesity treatments.

“The approval of Xinermei is a game-changer for the Chinese obesity market,” asserts one healthcare investor. “It provides a locally produced, potentially more affordable option for patients and healthcare providers.” However, challenges remain, including navigating the complex reimbursement landscape and building awareness among physicians and patients. Competition is also intensifying, with other domestic and international companies developing their own obesity treatments. Innovent will need to effectively communicate the unique benefits of Xinermei – its dual mechanism of action and its demonstrated efficacy in reducing both weight and liver fat – to differentiate it from competitors.

Looking Ahead

The approval of Xinermei marks a significant milestone for Innovent Biologics and for the Chinese healthcare industry. It demonstrates the growing innovation capacity of domestic biopharmaceutical companies and provides a much-needed treatment option for millions of Chinese adults struggling with obesity and related metabolic disorders. As Innovent prepares to launch Xinermei and expand its portfolio, the company is well-positioned to become a leading player in the Chinese biopharmaceutical market. “This is just the beginning,” remarks one analyst. “Innovent has a robust pipeline of innovative medicines, and we expect to see continued growth and success in the years to come.”